A woman applying lotion to her arm.

Before searching for ways to improve quality of life, you should know what the phrase means. So, what is quality of life? Encyclopedia Britannica (EB) defines it, in its simplest form, as "the degree to which an individual is healthy, comfortable, and able to participate in or enjoy life events." You'll hear it mentioned in conversations about healthcare, international development, and finance, among other contexts.

What constitutes a high or low quality of life (QOL) can be incredibly personal. For example: if is an integral part of your daily health and wellness routine, skipping it can negatively impact your life experience. For others, exercise and are their non-negotiables. Some might consider financial excess as the be-all and end-all of high QOL – on the flip side, some are happy to simply meet their basic needs, like food, shelter, and safety.

Given the holistic nature of the concept, improving your overall QOL might seem like a lofty goal. Instead of tackling it as a singular task, it helps to break it down into smaller parts. Ask yourself what you can tweak about your current situation to increase satisfaction bit by bit. If you're here, you must be curious to know how impactful body care can be to your well-being. Say no more! We'll fill you in.

How Basic Body Care Boosts Your Quality of Life

Since many consider skincare (and, by extension, body care) a "" practice, most people forget it's part of health and hygiene upkeep. That’s right! Yes, it feels nice, but it’s far from frivolous. After all, the skin is your body's largest organ – it only makes sense to care for it like you would your heart or lungs. Here's how even a basic can drastically improve your quality of life.

1. It strengthens skin health.

Existing in the modern world can wreak havoc on your skin. Pollution clogs pores, weather fluctuations aggravate dryness, and UV rays lead to (and worse). Practicing consistent body care can help manage those side effects while strengthening your skin against stressors.

2. It raises your self-confidence.

When your skin is smooth, supple, and healthy-looking, it's easier not to feel self-conscious. While there's nothing wrong with having imperfections, it's only human for your when you're having a "bad skin day." That's why body care can be so empowering. When you’re able to address whatever’s making your skin act up, you can feel more in control of your image.

3. It encourages relaxation and mindfulness.

Making time to focus on yourself can ground you in the present. That's the beauty of soothing routines. When washing up and applying your favorite body cream, the only thing that should matter is you. When you live a busy life, those quiet, stress-free moments do wonders for recharging your spirit.

4 Essential Steps for Taking Care of Body Skin

Are you new to body care? Here’s how to take care of your body with skincare.

Step 1: Cleanse with a germ-fighting soap.

You always want to start the day with clean skin, free of dirt, sweat, and irritants. Wash up with LIFEBUOY Antibacterial Bodywash Total 10: it creates a rich, creamy lather that feels ultra supple upon application. Not only does it get rid of germs, but it also leaves you smelling fresher than ever.

Step 2: Exfoliate with a revitalizing scrub.

Follow up your cleanser with a mild (read: non-abrasive – you don’t want micro tears!) exfoliator once or twice a week. Exfoliating helps buff away and dirt, giving you a more noticeable glow. Try the Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash: it combines Nutrium Moisture Technology with gentle exfoliating beads for smooth, soft-to-touch skin with regular use.

Step 3: Moisturize with a comfortable hydrator.

Find a moisturizer that works for . Go with whatever feels comfortable! You don’t want anything too heavy, or so light that you still feel dry after application.

For example: if you have , thicker creams might give you relief. But if you're on the oilier side, a lightweight lotion may be better. In any case, layer on your hydrator while the skin is still damp – this helps with absorption! Well-moisturized skin is less prone to problems, like breakouts and excess oil.

Step 4: Protect with broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Last but not least, . It's your best defense against harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburns, premature skin aging, and (God forbid!) skin cancer. Use a formula with at least (for UVA protection – more is better!) and a PA++++ rating (for UVB protection). Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you're sweating or swimming.

How do you improve quality of life? Start small by incorporating these simple body care practices into your daily wellness routine. It won’t transform your life overnight, but its long-term effects on your mental and physical well-being are worth the extra effort.